Pan Pizza Vs Hand-Tossed: Which Is Better?

There’s no shortage of debate when it comes to pizza, from crust type to toppings—but one of the most oft-debated topics is whether pan pizza or hand-tossed is best. Everyone has their favorite, but for those who are undecided on this hot topic (or just curious about what all the fuss is about), here’s an in-depth look at pan pizzas and hand-tossed pizzas: their ingredients, cooking methods, and popular recipes. Read on for a taste test comparison of pan pizza vs hand-tossed that will help you decide which type of pizza should be your go-to order next time you’re craving a slice!

What Is A Pan Pizza?

A pan pizza is made with a thicker, crunchier crust, created by baking it in a deep pan. The dough used to make this type of pizza has more fat, which helps to keep the edges from drying out as it bakes and gives the crust that irresistible buttery flavor and crunch.

The addition of oil or melted butter to the pan before adding the dough also prevents sticking, giving you a crispy crust with slightly chewy edges. Your favorite toppings are added just like any other pizza—but because of its thicker texture and higher fat content, a pan pizza is often more filling than its hand-tossed counterpart.

Origin Of Pan Pizza

The origin of pan pizza dates back to the 1930s when Italian immigrant grocery store owner and restaurateur Tony Gennaro invented this type of pizza in Chicago. The thick, buttery crust proved to be an instant hit—so much so that it quickly gained popularity throughout the United States and is now one of America’s favorite pizzas.

Health Benefits Of Pan Pizza

Despite their thicker, richer crust and higher fat content, pan pizzas are surprisingly healthy. The dense dough is full of fiber, which helps to keep you feeling full for longer and can even help regulate your blood sugar levels. And because the pizza is cooked in a shallow pan with little or no oil, it’s lower in calories than a hand-tossed pizza. Plus, the higher fat content helps to ensure that all of your toppings are cooked thoroughly—which means you can enjoy a delicious slice without having to worry about undercooked toppings.

Delicious Pan Pizza Recipes

Now that you know all about pan pizzas, it’s time to get cooking! Here are a few delicious recipes to get you started:

• Classic Cheese Pan Pizza – This classic pizza is easy to make and sure to please. Simply roll out your dough, top it with some cheese and whatever toppings you desire, and bake in a shallow pan.

• BBQ Chicken Pan Pizza – For a slightly more adventurous take on pizza, try this delicious BBQ chicken pan pizza. Top your dough with BBQ sauce, diced chicken, red onions, and cilantro for a flavor combination that is sure to please.
• Mediterranean Pan Pizza – This flavorful pizza features classic Mediterranean flavors like feta cheese, kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

How To Make A Pan Pizza?

1. Making a pan pizza is easy and requires few ingredients. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 12-inch deep-dish pizza pan with oil or butter. 
2. Then, combine 2¼ cups of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of salt in a large bowl and make a well. To the well, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, ⅔ cup of lukewarm water, and 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast. 
3. Mix together until you get a soft dough and knead it for about 7 minutes on a lightly floured surface.
4. Next, roll the dough into an even circle and place it in the greased pan. Spread it out to cover the entire bottom of the pan and press down along the edges to create a crust. 
5. Once your dough is ready, add your favorite toppings (cheese, sauce, meats, veggies) and drizzle with olive oil before baking for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

What Is A Hand-Tossed Pizza?

In contrast to pan pizza, hand-tossed pizzas are made with a thinner crust. The dough is stretched and tossed in the air before it’s added to the pizza stone or pan, resulting in a light, slightly chewy texture.

Because of its thinner crust, a hand-tossed pizza uses less fat and is typically lower in calories than pan pizzas. It’s also cooked at a higher temperature, which helps to give it that signature crispiness and a golden brown hue.

Origin Of Hand-Tossed Pizza

The origins of the hand-tossed pizza can be traced back to Naples, Italy in the late 18th century. It was here that pizza makers began to perfect this unique cooking method and create pizzas with a thin crust topped with fresh ingredients. Today, hand-tossed pizzas are widespread throughout the world—with different versions for every taste bud!

Read more: How many slices in a costco pizza

Health Benefits Of Hand-Tossed Pizza

Although hand-tossed pizza often has a higher calorie count than pan pizza, it’s still a healthier option than many other types of takeout food. The lower fat content means that the dough won’t get greasy, and the high heat of the oven helps to cook out much of the grease from your toppings.

Plus, because the crust is so thin and crispy, you can enjoy generous amounts of delicious toppings without compromising on flavor. The high heat also helps to ensure that all the ingredients are cooked through—making it a great option for those who want to enjoy a tasty meal without having to worry about undercooked ingredients. Hand-tossed pizza is also a great way to get your daily dose of veggies and other nutritious toppings!

Delicious Hand-Tossed Pizza Recipes

• Margherita Hand-Tossed Pizza – The classic Italian favorite, the Margherita pizza is made with a combination of tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. It’s the perfect way to get your taste buds tingling!
• Hawaiian Hand-Tossed Pizza – This tropical treat features ham, pineapple, and a generous helping of mozzarella cheese. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is sure to delight your taste buds!
• Greek Hand-Tossed Pizza – Combine the tangy flavors of feta cheese, olives, and tomatoes with a sprinkle of oregano and garlic for a delicious Greek-inspired hand-tossed pizza.
• Four Cheese Hand-Tossed Pizza – Who doesn’t love a cheesy pizza? Enjoy the amazing combination of cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and feta cheeses for a flavor sensation like no other.
• Veggie Hand-Tossed Pizza – Create your own meatless masterpiece with this delicious veggie-packed pizza. Combine mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and olives with a generous helping of mozzarella cheese for an irresistible vegetarian dish.

No matter which type of hand-tossed pizza you choose, you can be sure that it will be delicious every time. So why not give it a try today and see how you like it?

How To Make A Hand-Tossed Pizza?

1. Making a hand-tossed pizza is easy and requires only a few ingredients. Begin by preheating your oven to 500°F (260°C) and lightly oiling a pizza stone or baking sheet with olive oil.
2. Next, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, ⅓ cup of warm water, 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large bowl. 
3. Mix together until you get a soft dough and knead it for about 7 minutes on a lightly floured surface.
4. Once your dough is ready, stretch it out into an even circle and place it on the pizza stone or baking sheet. 
5. Add your favorite toppings (cheese, sauce, meats, veggies) and drizzle with olive oil before baking for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. 

Pan Pizza Vs Hand-Tossed: What’s the Difference?

While both hand-tossed and pan pizzas are delicious, there are a few key differences that set them apart.

Dough

The main difference between these two types of pizza is the dough. Hand-tossed pizzas use a thinner crust made from yeast, flour, salt, water, and olive oil that’s stretched out and then tossed in the air before being added to the pizza stone or pan. This results in a light, slightly chewy texture.

Pan pizzas, on the other hand, use a thicker crust made from yeast, flour, salt, oil or butter, and lukewarm water that’s pressed into the pan before baking. This results in a thick, buttery crust that’s heavier than the hand-tossed version.

Preparation

The preparation process of each pizza type is also different. Hand-tossed pizzas require less fat and are typically lower in calories than pan pizzas. They’re also cooked at a higher temperature, which helps to give them that signature crispiness and golden brown hue.

Pan pizzas, on the other hand, need more fat to achieve that signature crunch and are typically higher in calories. They’re also cooked at a lower temperature, which helps to keep the dough soft and chewy.

Crust

The third difference between the two pizzas is their crust. Hand-tossed pizza crusts are thin and chewy, while pan pizza crusts are thick and buttery. Both versions can be topped with your favorite ingredients to create a delicious meal!

Toppings

The toppings you choose for your pizza will also affect the final outcome. Hand-tossed pizzas are best served with lighter toppings, such as fresh vegetables and herbs, while pan pizzas can handle heavier toppings like cheese, meats, and sauces. Experiment with both types of pizza to find out which one you prefer!

Taste And Texture

The taste and texture of each pizza type is also different. Hand-tossed pizzas offer a light, slightly chewy texture with a golden brown hue, while pan pizzas provide a buttery crunch and thicker dough.

No matter which type you choose, both hand-tossed and pan pizzas are sure to satisfy your taste buds. So why not give them both a try and see which one you prefer?

Bonus Tip: If you want to take your pizza game up a notch, consider making your own dough from scratch! It’s easier than you think and will add an extra layer of flavor to your finished product. All you need is some flour, yeast, salt, water, and a little bit of patience. 

Hand-Tossed Vs Pan Pizza: Which Is Better?

Both hand-tossed pizza and pan pizza have their own unique tastes and textures that make them both delicious. There’s no definitive answer as to which one is better — it’s really up to personal preference. If you’re looking for a lighter, crispier crust, go with the hand-tossed option. But if you prefer a thicker, buttery crust, pan pizza may be the way to go. Whichever way you choose, both types of pizza are sure to satisfy your cravings!

No matter which one you choose in the end, grab a few friends and enjoy some delicious pizza together — it’s always more fun to share!

Conclusion: Pan Pizza Vs Hand-Tossed 

So, pan pizza vs hand-tossed, which is the best? Whether you’re looking for a heartier meal or just an irresistible crust, pan pizza and hand-tossed pizza offer two great options. Each type of pizza has its own distinct characteristics and unique history, so it’s up to you to decide which one is right for your next pizza night! No matter which type of pizza you choose, it’s sure to be delicious. Thanks for reading at Heartlandmiami!

FAQ: Pan Pizza Vs Hand-Tossed 

Which is better Domino’s hand-tossed or pan?

Hand-tossed pizza is a good option if you want a crispy piece with fewer toppings, cheese, and oil. However, if you want a lot of cheese and toppings with less crunchiness, the pan pizza will satisfy you.

Is pan pizza thicker than hand-tossed?

The Hand Tossed pizza dough is thicker than the Crunchy Thin but thinner than the Handmade Pan. The hand-tossed crust dough is stretched to the desired size.

Why is pan pizza better?

The pan pizza’s bigger and sturdier crust allows for more cheese, sauce, and toppings. Normally, these embellishments will extend all the way to the crust’s edges. Because the pan pizza is stuffed with more cheese, the crust has a softer texture.

Why are pan pizzas more expensive?

In general, Pizza Hut costs extra for pan pizza since it has more ingredients than a hand-tossed pizza. In addition, pans are more expensive, and the process of producing pan pizza is time-consuming.

Which is better hand-tossed or pan pizza Pizza Hut?

Hand-tossed pizzas, on the other hand, are certainly the way to go if you want a crispy crust and a more typical pizza flavor. Pan pizzas may be a better alternative if you want a softer crust and a wider selection of toppings.

Is a pizza pan worth it?

Yes, nearly universally, it’s for you if you require a multifunctional pan. A perforated pan is a preferable choice for a variety of reasons. When compared to a smooth pan, it takes significantly less time to heat. Other than producing pizza with a crispy crust, having burnt or leftover sections becomes meaningless when employing this style.

Does a pizza pan make a difference?

The difference between a pizza pan with holes and one without makes a major impact in how crispy the crust is. Solid Pizza Pans – The most popular form of pizza pan, with no holes or nibs. As a result, the heat takes longer to travel through the solid pan, resulting in a doughy crust.

Why is Domino’s pan pizza so good?

I like pan pizzas because the dough is fluffier, the dough isn’t just ‘dough’ since the butter adds taste, and the sauce between two cheeses simply makes it a nice pizza all around. What about the butter? The dough is known as BP dough. Abbreviation for “buttery pan.”

Is pan pizza good enough for one person?

It certainly is. Some of the greatest pizza; if you’re really hungry, try adding a topping or two.

Does a pan pizza have more toppings?

A pan pizza has a thicker crust than a standard pizza and can contain more toppings. A hand-tossed pizza, for example, is frequently created with only one type of cheese, typically mozzarella. When topped with cheeses such as mozzarella, white cheddar, and fontina, a pan pizza may hold up to the test.

How many slices are in a pan pizza?

Small pizzas range in size from 8 to 10 inches in diameter and make roughly six slices. Medium pizzas are 12 inches in diameter and provide around eight pieces. Large pizzas are 14 inches in diameter and serve around 10 pieces.

What is meant by hand-tossed pizza?

A hand-tossed pizza is one that is stretched by tossing the dough in the air. After hand tossing, the pizza is baked on a slab in a hot oven. This technique produces thin-crust pizza, such as New York-style, Brooklyn-style, and traditional Italian Neapolitan pizza.

What is hand-tossed pizza in Dominos?

The Hand Tossed pizza crust is thinner than the Handmade Pan pizza crust but thicker than the Crunchy Thin pizza crust. The hand-tossed crust dough is stretched to the desired size. After baking, the crust is topped with a garlic—oil seasoning combination.

Is hand-tossed original?

The thick, crunchy crust of Original Pan® Pizza is fluffy on the interior. The crust of Hand Tossed Pizza is thinner and more classic.

Does the hand-tossed pizza have cheese?

Classic Hand-Tossed Pizza: The Classic Hand-Tossed Pizza features Domino’s traditional hand-stretched crust. This crust is prepared by kneading fresh dough and then gently stretching it by hand. After the sauces, cheese, and toppings have been added, the dough is cooked to perfection.

Is thin crust healthier than hand-tossed?

Choosing the thin-crust variant, on the other hand, generally saves you calories. You’ll save 70 calories for every big slice of cheese pizza at Papa John’s. A big thin-crust slice from Domino’s contains around 60 fewer calories than a typical hand-tossed slice.

Why is pizza dough hand-tossed?

Hand-tossing the pizza dough retains some of the moisture, resulting in a softer crust. The air helps to generate a circular shape by rotating the pizza dough. The wind over the product also dries it out sufficiently to make it less sticky and simpler to handle. Hand tossing results in a distinct crust each time.